If you’re considering veneers to up the aesthetic appeal of your smile, you may have questions about potential side effects. One common concern is whether veneers can cause tooth sensitivity. Some people do experience temporary sensitivity after getting veneers, but persistent or severe sensitivity isn’t considered normal or something you should simply ignore.
Why Can Veneers Cause Sensitivity?
Depending on the type of veneers you receive, your dentist may need to remove a small amount of enamel from the front of your teeth to prepare them. Enamel protects the more sensitive inner layers of your teeth, and when removed, the teeth may temporarily become more sensitive to hot, cold, or sweet foods and beverages.
Your dentist will typically try to preserve as much healthy enamel as possible while creating enough space for the veneers to fit properly. The amount of preparation varies depending on the type of veneers and your individual teeth.
Sensitivity is Generally Temporary
Some sensitivity following veneer placement is common and typically improves as your teeth adjust to the restorations. You might notice discomfort when drinking a cold beverage or eating hot food during the first few days following treatment.
Using toothpaste formulated for sensitive teeth and avoiding extremely hot or cold foods temporarily can make the adjustment period more tolerable. Your dentist can also recommend additional strategies based on your symptoms.
When Should You Be Concerned?
If your temporary sensitivity goes on, becomes severe, or happens out of nowhere, you should be evaluated by your dentist. Persistent discomfort isn’t necessarily caused by the veneers themselves. An underlying cavity, cracked tooth, gum recession, bite issue, or other dental problems could be responsible.
If a veneer doesn’t fit properly or your bite isn’t balanced after placement, it may also contribute to discomfort.
Is Sensitivity Preventable?
A thorough dental evaluation before getting veneers is important. Your dentist should assess your teeth and gums to make sure they’re healthy enough for treatment. Treating existing cavities, gum disease, or other problems beforehand can keep potential complications from arising.
It’s also important to choose a qualified dental professional who can determine whether veneers are appropriate and plan the treatment carefully. Veneers aren’t necessarily the best solution for every cosmetic concern.
To summarize, keep in mind that sensitivity after veneer placement is common, but it shouldn’t persist beyond a couple of weeks for most patients. If it does, see your dentist. In the meantime, an over-the-counter pain reliever should do the trick!
About the Practice
Interested in getting veneers? Drs. Robin Schumacher and Paul Sim at Schumacher Dental consider it a privilege to watch their patients’ confidence grow from giving them the smiles they’ve dreamed of. Dr. Schumacher has more than 15 years of experience specializing in cosmetic dentistry, so you can trust you’ll receive expert treatment! Book online or call our Wakefield office at (781) 334-3400.